The Jammu and Kashmir Assembly’s first session in six years, which began on Monday, was marked by heated exchanges when People’s Democratic Party (PDP) MLA Waheed Para introduced a resolution opposing the abrogation of Article 370 and called for restoring the union territory’s special status. Representing the Pulwama Assembly seat, Para submitted the resolution to the newly-elected Speaker Abdul Rahim Rather, requesting a discussion on the matter despite it not being on the official agenda.
PDP’s Push for Special Status
In his appeal to the Speaker, Para emphasized that the resolution reflects the broader sentiment of the people and should be included for discussion. This move, however, led to immediate opposition from the BJP MLAs, with all 28 BJP members standing in protest.
BJP Calls for Suspension, Speaker’s Intervention
BJP MLA Sham Lal Sharma demanded Para’s suspension, asserting that his actions violated Assembly rules. As the Speaker repeatedly urged order, he clarified that he had not yet reviewed the resolution and would only do so if it formally reached him. Nevertheless, the BJP’s protests continued, disrupting proceedings.
Response from National Conference and PDP Leaders
Amid the commotion, National Conference MLAs criticized the BJP for derailing the session, while Chief Minister Omar Abdullah dismissed the resolution as inconsequential. “This resolution has no real importance it’s more about public show than substance. Any serious proposal would have been discussed with us prior to the session,” he remarked.
Meanwhile, PDP chief Mehbooba Mufti expressed pride in Para’s actions, tweeting her support: “Proud of Waheed Parra for introducing a resolution opposing the revocation of Article 370 and seeking to restore the special status.”
Background on Article 370 and Its Abrogation
Article 370, initially part of the Indian Constitution, granted special autonomy to Jammu and Kashmir, allowing it to maintain its own constitution and autonomy over internal matters. However, on August 5, 2019, the central government revoked Article 370, reorganizing Jammu and Kashmir into two Union Territories: Jammu and Kashmir, and Ladakh.
The debate over Article 370’s legacy and status continues to be a contentious issue, reflected in the tense atmosphere of the current Assembly session.
